Johnson, Alabama Senior Bowl group have much to prove

Published: Wednesday, January 23, 2013 at 6:01 a.m.

Last Modified: Wednesday, January 23, 2013 at 11:08 p.m.

MOBILE — Linebacker Nico Johnson spent much of his Alabama career rotating with C.J. Mosley as the designated run-stopper.

Johnson is aiming to use the week leading up to Saturday’s Senior Bowl to start proving that role doesn’t mean he can’t be a complete player in the NFL. He said he wants to show “that I’m a much better player than what people think.”

“I can be more of a sideline than straight-ahead player. I can cover,” Johnson said.

He and the rest of the Crimson Tide’s Senior Bowl contingent have more to prove than some of the more highly rated players from the two-time defending national champions.

Johnson, safety Robert Lester, tight end Michael Williams and longsnapper Carson Tinker are the remaining players from a group that could have been larger.

Offensive linemen Barrett Jones and D.J. Fluker are out with injuries, while guard Chance Warmack — perhaps the Tide’s highest rated player — declined the invitation. So did defensvie tackle Jesse Williams.

Cornerback Dee Milliner and tailback Eddie Lacy — both juniors — weren’t eligible unlike Fluker, who was a fourth-year player who has already graduated. Warmack, Milliner, Lacy and Fluker have all been rated as potential first-round picks.

The guys who are able to participate in the showcase game for NFL prospects are hoping the week will improve their stock.

“There’s a lot of talent out here and a great opportunity to show the world what you’re capable of,” Lester said. “Every day’s a chance to go out there and shine.”

He and Johnson were key players the past few seasons alongside more acclaimed stars.

Johnson was third on the team with 55 tackles as a senior while Mosley was earning All-America honors.

He got considerable playing time against run-oriented teams like LSU and far less — a mere five snaps — against Texas A&M’s spread offense.

Lester collected 48 tackles and a team-high four interceptions this season, and led the Southeastern Conference with eight picks two years ago.

Like Fluker, he played for Foley High School, about 30 minutes from Mobile.

“It’s so close to my hometown,” Lester said. “I’ve always told myself, ‘I’ve got to play in that game. I’ve just got to play in that game.’ It means a lot to me.”

Alabama coach Nick Saban said Lester was a good leader and strong performer on the field.

“I’m sure everybody’s going to try to evaluate his range,” Saban said. “He made a lot of interceptions and a lot of big plays for us.

“I think he’s definitely got a future in the National Football League.”

Williams, meanwhile, is known as more of a blocker than a pass catcher.

The 6-foot-5, 272-pounder did catch four touchdowns passes last season, including a 3-yarder in the BCS championship game against Notre Dame.

Again, Saban makes a case for his style of play in the NFL.

“Some people would say he’s not a big threat vertically down the field with his speed, but I think there’s a place for guys like Michael Williams who are tough physically and great competitors, has good hands and can make plays,” he said.

Reader comments posted to this article may be published in our print edition. All rights reserved. This copyrighted material may not be re-published without permission. Links are encouraged.